25 October 2023 , 23:01
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Royal British Legion bosses are today launching the first-ever plastic-free poppies.
The recyclable remembrance symbols are now made from 100% paper, in the first redesign for 28 years. Existing poppies, with plastic stems and centres will still be available as the RBL clears its remaining stock. They can be recycled at Sainsbury’s supermarkets. The charity has been working with scientists at University College London for the past three years to develop the plastic-free poppy, as part of its efforts to become more sustainable.
Stars including Dame Joanna Lumley will be showing their backing for the new design. Singer Katherine Jenkins has been a long-time supporter of the RBL and was seen wearing a poppy at a Mirror Pride of Britain awards ceremony. The symbol was first used to raise money for veterans in 1921 after the First World War and made from hand-crafted red silk with wire stems.
Joanna Lumley sports a plastic-free poppy (PA)
Katherine Jenkins with the new-style poppy (Daily Mirror)There have been more than 10 versions since, including a cardboard “austerity poppy” in the wartime 40s. Royal Navy D-Day veteran John Roberts, 99, from Whitstable, Kent, said: “I’ve been wearing a poppy for more than 70 years, all different versions. But while they have changed, what will always remain is its important meaning.”
Poppy campaign director Andy Taylor-Whyte added: “We’re so proud the public can wear this poignant symbol of remembrance with less impact on the environment.”
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